The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) has issued a strong warning. They highlight the dangers of consuming fake drugs and unverified supplements. These can pose serious risks to heart health. On November 27, 2024, the Usapang Puso sa Puso (UPP) episode was titled “Puso: Drugs, Supplements & the Heart.” During this episode, the PHA collaborated with the Department of Health (DOH). Their goal was to raise awareness during the National Consciousness Week against Counterfeit Medicine.
Dr. Connie Sison is the chair of the PHA Council on Pharmacotherapy. She highlighted the importance of relying on trusted medical sources for drugs and supplements. She emphasized that no vitamin or supplement can cure or prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Although multivitamins may reduce certain risk factors, they should not be seen as a protective measure against heart issues.
In an age where fad medicines are aggressively marketed as miracle cures, Dr. Sison warned that these products often have little backing in terms of effectiveness and can be habit-forming. The PHA advises patients to consult their doctors. They need to discuss the safety and appropriateness of any medications or supplements for their conditions. Dr. Avenilo “Jun” Aventura, PHA’s Advocacy Chair and Director, emphasized the importance of patient compliance. He also highlighted the need for collaboration between patients, families, and healthcare providers. This collaboration is necessary to decide effective treatment plans.
Additionally, he advised consumers to verify the legitimacy of products by checking for FDA approval using their online portal. He also cautioned consumers when purchasing supplements. Supplements fall under the category of “food” rather than medications, resulting in less stringent manufacturing standards. Both generic and branded drugs are effective if approved. Yet, patients may prefer branded products due to other influencing factors.
Overall, both doctors advocated for a healthy lifestyle over-reliance on supplements. Supplements should complement a balanced diet but should not encourage unhealthy eating habits or replace prescribed medications. The PHA introduced the “P-H-A P-U-S-O M-U-N-A” initiative. It promotes essential healthy living tenets for cardiovascular health. These include healthy eating, avoiding smoking, staying active, controlling blood pressure, and adhering to maintenance medications. It also involves managing sugar intake and addressing obesity. This underscores the importance of prioritizing heart health in daily life.
Watch the full episode here:
